Free activities in Connecticut

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Family fun for free

Having fun with your family doesn't have to cost a fortune. In fact, you can find plenty of interesting places to go and things to do in Connecticut that don't cost a dime. Here are some of our favorite free activities for families.

UConn Animal Barns

Everyone loves animals! Head to the barns at the University of Connecticut to see cows, sheep, horses and more. Visitors can even see the dairy cows being milked daily between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. at the Kellogg Dairy Center. Rest in the shade at the picnic tables along Horsebarn Hill or stop and have an ice cream treat at the UConn Dairy Bar.

Museum of Connecticut History

Located at the Connecticut State Library, the Museum of Connecticut History is a great place for families to have fun while learning about the government and history of the state. The museum features a number of interesting permanent exhibits, including some of the state's most important documents. Additionally, a variety of temporary exhibits and collections are on display at the museum throughout the year. If you want your children to learn more about the political, industrial and military history of the state, and have some fun along the way, the museum is a good place to start.

New Britain Youth Museum

Museums don't have to be boring for kids. Take your family to the New Britain Youth Museum, where they can enjoy hands-on toys and games, puppet theater, the Dinosaur Room and much more. On Saturday, children can also see a movie or take part in arts and crafts throughout the day.

Silver Sands State Park

Head to Silver Sands State Park where your whole family will enjoy fun in the sun and water activities such as saltwater fishing and swimming in the Long Island Sound. Silver Sands is a 47-acre park that includes the beach, dunes, woods and open areas to enjoy. You can walk along the boardwalk, have a picnic, go bird-watching and more. The park also includes the bird sanctuary of Charles Island — where Captain Kidd's treasure is rumored to be buried. Pets are not permitted on the beach or boardwalk but can be in the other areas of the park as long as they are on a leash.

Connecticut State Capitol Tours

Learn more about our government by heading to the Connecticut Capitol for a tour. Free guided tours are available during the week. You'll find out more about the state's history, visit the Hall of Flags, view the House and Senate Chambers, observe the General Assembly and more. You can also skip the guide and explore on your own. Self-guided tour pamphlets are available at the State Capitol, Capitol Statuary and the Legislative Office Building.